Pickleball and Padel are both newer sports that have become popular recently.
Pickleball was created in 1965 and has increased in popularity, especially in the United States and Canada. It is now enjoyed in over 100 countries worldwide, with more than 5,000 locations in the US.
Padel was developed in Mexico in the late 1960s and gained popularity in Spain and other Spanish-speaking nations. It has also become popular in Europe and the Middle East in recent years. Padel is played in over 90 countries, with 65 National Federations, 30 million active players, and 600,000 federated players.
Number of courts in Europe in 2025: around 48,000, projected to be 80,000 – 100,000 courts by 2030.
Both Pickleball and Padel are enjoyable sports that can be a lot of fun to play. The choice of which one is more fun depends on personal preferences and what you want in a sport and the playing styles.
Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It is typically played on a smaller court with a lower net and a paddle that is larger than a ping-pong paddle but smaller than a tennis racket. Pickleball can be played both indoors and outdoors and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. It’s a fast-paced game that requires quick reflexes, good hand-eye coordination, and strategy.
Court Size: 13,4 x 6,1 m (44 x 20 feet)
Netting: 86 cm tall in the center of the net
Padel is a racket sport that is similar to tennis and squash. It is typically played on an enclosed court that is smaller than a tennis court and surrounded by glass walls. Padel is played with a racket, which is similar to a tennis racket but with holes in it. The ball used in Padel is also similar to a tennis ball but slightly smaller and with less pressure. Padel is a great sport for both beginners and advanced players, and it is mainly played in doubles, making it a fun social activity. Padel is known for its emphasis on teamwork, communication, and quick reflexes.
Court Size: 20 x 10 m (68 x 35 feet)
Net Height: 88 cm tall in the center of the net
Ultimately, the fun you have while playing pickleball or padel depends on your preferences and what you want from a sport.
If you like fast games that need quick thinking and focus, then pickleball is a great match for your active style. It has quick rallies and offers different techniques and strategies that can make each game exciting.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a slower, more social game that still needs skill and strategy, then padel might suit your relaxed yet competitive nature better. Padel is often played in a fun, friendly setting that promotes teamwork and lighthearted competition, making every match enjoyable no matter your skill level.
See also: What is padel?
